Temple Emanu-El Toronto Targeted in Shooting – Investigation Underway

Toronto police are investigating after a shooting incident at Temple Emanu-El, a synagogue located at 120 Old Colony Road in North York, late Monday night. The incident left the building with bullet holes but thankfully resulted in no injuries.

Officers responded to reports of shots fired at approximately 10:49 p.m. Upon arrival, evidence markers were found scattered across the driveway, and several bullet holes were visible in the synagogue’s front windows. Police have confirmed evidence of gunfire and damage to the building, but a suspect has not yet been identified.

Hate Crime Unit Investigating

The Toronto Police Service’s Hate Crime Unit is leading the investigation, according to a police spokesperson. This designation underscores the seriousness of the incident and the potential for it being motivated by antisemitism.

False Alarm at Nearby Synagogue

Initial reports suggested that Kehillat Shaarei Torah, another synagogue in the same neighbourhood, may have also been targeted. However, CityNews has confirmed that damage at that location stemmed from a previous incident in November, involving repeated vandalism – including smashed windows and antisemitic graffiti – of which there have been at least 10 incidents in recent years. Police have stated there was no firearm discharge at Kehillat Shaarei Torah on Monday or Tuesday.

Call for Information

Police are urging anyone with information or video footage from the area to come forward. Individuals can contact the police at 416-808-3300 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.

Other News from Around the GTA

In other news from the Greater Toronto Area:

• Gas Prices Rising: Drivers can expect a six-cent increase at the pumps on Wednesday, bringing the average price to 141.9 cents per litre. (En-Pro)
• Homicide Investigation Update: Toronto and York Region homicide investigators will hold a news conference on Tuesday to discuss ongoing investigations into separate killings since January.
• Canadian Tourists Involved in Bus Accident: The Embassy of Canada to the Dominican Republic has confirmed the involvement of Canadians in a tourist bus accident in the Caribbean nation.
• International Tensions: Iran expanded its targets Tuesday, striking the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. (Associated Press)
• Weston Lions’ Arena: Plans are underway to create a new design option for the Weston Lions’ arena.
• Toronto Weather: A cloudy week is expected, with temperatures warming up by Tuesday evening.
• Infrastructure Repairs: Emergency repairs are being conducted on the Gardiner Expressway due to severe concrete deterioration.
• Convention Centre Plans: The Premier has promised details on a new convention facility for Toronto, stating the specifics will be “shock and awe.”

Stay tuned to CityNews for further updates on these and other developing stories.